The Accumulation and Physiological Responses of Camellia sinensis to Heavy Metals

Abstract

Heavy metals refer to metal elements with a density greater than 4.5 g/cm3. In recent years, human activities have increasingly exacerbated heavy metal pollution, and people are increasingly paying attention to the harm of heavy metal pollution to agricultural products. Tea is a common food, and the accumulation and physiological response of its parent Camellia sinensis to heavy metals have received increasing attention from scholars. Studies have shown that heavy metals can enter and accumulate in Camellia sinensis in various ways, and their toxicological effects on Camellia sinensis mainly include inhibiting growth and development, disrupting physiological and metabolic balance, and reducing the concentration of various chemicals in the body. This article summarizes the pathways by which heavy metals enter Camellia sinensis; the accumulation, physiological response, and tolerance effects of heavy metals in Camellia sinensis; and the underlying mechanisms involved. Finally, suggestions and prospects are made for the shortcomings of current research and future research directions.